Grey Partridges by Paul Coombes

For many, spring is a time of hope and optimism. Migrant birds arrive, flowers begin to bloom ... yet there is also a more brutal side to this time of year. Birds are staking out their territories ahead of the breeding season, and that often leads to confrontation – which can sometimes turn violent.

Nottinghamshire-based photographer Paul Coombes caught these two Grey Partridges embroiled in a physical battle near his home recently and, as this somewhat graphic image shows, the birds weren't afraid to take chunks out of each other. It's a reminder that, as we welcome the longer, warmer days of spring, this is a very serious time for birds and other wildlife, as the urge to breed kicks in.

Congratulations to Paul on this striking shot; a very worthy winner!

Other notable images

Slavonian Grebe, Kirk Hallam, Derbyshire (Ian Bollen).

King Eider, Hascosay, Shetland (Brydon Thomason).

Ring-necked Duck, Alexandra Park, Manchester, Greater Manchester (Miles Cluff).

Hen Harrier, Hundred End, Lancashire (Susan H Wilson).

Common Buzzard, Porth, Glamorgan (Colin Harvey).

Barn Owl, Northwich, Cheshire (James Burk).

Common Snipe, Newstead & Annesley CP, Nottinghamshire (Simon Richardson).

Red-throated Diver, Deeping High Bank, Lincolnshire (Will Bowell).

Northern Wheatear, Southerndown, Glamorgan (Paul Roberts).

Eurasian Wren, Studley, Warwickshire (Clive Daelman).